In the intense, unforgiving world ofSekiro: Shadows Die Twice, mastering every combat tool at your disposal can mean the difference between triumph and defeat. Among the most talked-about features on forums like Reddit is the mysterious and powerful Bestowal Ninjutsu. This skill stands out for its unique effects and synergy with aggressive playstyles. Whether you’re a stealthy killer or a blade-dancer who thrives in chaos, understanding the intricacies of Bestowal Ninjutsu can take your Sekiro gameplay to the next level. Its visual flair, strategic value, and community opinions make it a fascinating topic for both newcomers and veterans alike.
What Is Bestowal Ninjutsu in Sekiro?
Core Concept
Bestowal Ninjutsu is one of three Ninjutsu techniques available in Sekiro, obtained during your journey through Ashina. Unlike traditional Prosthetic Tools or Combat Arts, Ninjutsu abilities are used after performing a Backstab Deathblow. This particular Ninjutsu causes the slain enemy’s blood to coat your blade, forming a spectral, extended weapon that deals sweeping damage for a short time.
How to Acquire It
You gain access to Bestowal Ninjutsu by defeating the Guardian Ape for the second time specifically, the Headless Ape encounter in the Ashina Depths. Upon victory, you receive the Bestowal Ninjutsu as part of your rewards. It is permanently unlocked and can be toggled before battles just like the other Ninjutsu skills.
Bestowal Ninjutsu Effects and Duration
In-Game Mechanics
Once activated, Bestowal Ninjutsu imbues your sword with a phantom blood effect that dramatically increases the range and damage of your attacks. The enhanced blade can hit multiple enemies in a single swing, making it particularly effective for mob control and follow-up engagements.
Duration and Cooldown
The effect lasts approximately 20 seconds, though this can vary slightly depending on your aggression. It’s important to note that the Ninjutsu effect can only be activated after a successful Backstab Deathblow, which limits its use against bosses but makes it incredibly potent in areas filled with weaker enemies or stealth scenarios.
Reddit Community Insight
What Players Say About It
On Reddit, discussions about Bestowal Ninjutsu often highlight its cinematic quality and usefulness in dealing with multiple foes. Many players appreciate how it transforms standard swordplay into something visually spectacular. The blood-imbued blade sweeping through enemies is frequently described as one of the most satisfying animations in the game.
Strategic Opinions
While the Reddit community admires its aesthetic and functionality, opinions are mixed regarding its utility in high-level or boss encounters. Some argue it’s situational and less practical than other Ninjutsu options like Puppeteer, which offers more strategic advantages such as distraction or puzzle-solving. Still, others insist that Bestowal is ideal for clearing out dense enemy groups quickly, especially when paired with crowd-control Combat Arts.
How to Use Bestowal Ninjutsu Effectively
Ideal Scenarios
- Enemy Camps: Activate the Ninjutsu after stealth-killing a guard to clear nearby enemies in a single barrage.
- Late-Game Areas: Ashina Castle and Fountainhead Palace have tightly grouped enemies perfect for sweeping strikes.
- Against Mini-Bosses: In certain fights, you can sneak in a Backstab Deathblow on a secondary enemy, then use the buff against the boss.
Combining With Other Tools
- Ichimonji: Double– Use the added blade range for massive posture damage.
- Shadowrush– Follow up a swift charge with Bestowal-powered attacks to chain kills.
- Divine Confetti– If fighting apparitions, stack this buff with Bestowal to decimate them.
Comparison With Other Ninjutsu Skills
Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu
Bloodsmoke allows you to instantly create a cloud after a kill, granting immediate stealth. It’s favored in heavy stealth builds and can reset positioning. Compared to Bestowal, it lacks offensive impact but offers strong tactical advantages.
Puppeteer Ninjutsu
This skill turns enemies into temporary allies after a Backstab Deathblow. It’s a powerful utility tool, used not only in combat but to access secret paths or complete puzzles. Bestowal offers no utility beyond damage, but excels in fast-paced fighting scenarios.
Tips and Tricks
Maximizing Uptime
Since Bestowal Ninjutsu has a short duration and specific trigger, it’s essential to plan your activation. Move through areas with clear Backstab opportunities, and don’t waste the buff on isolated enemies. Try luring multiple enemies into proximity before activating it to get the most value from each swing.
Skill Synergies
To get the most from Bestowal, invest in skills that promote aggression and posture breaking. Ashina Arts and the Temple Arts tree offer excellent synergy. Embrace a high-pressure playstyle to ensure you fully benefit from the Ninjutsu’s limited window.
Challenges and Limitations
Boss Fights
One of the biggest downsides discussed by Reddit users is its limited use in boss fights. Most major enemies do not allow for Backstab Deathblows, meaning you won’t be able to activate the Ninjutsu when it matters most in one-on-one showdowns. As such, many players keep it equipped only during exploration phases.
Short Duration
The effect window is brief, and if you mismanage timing or position, it can end without doing much damage. Awareness and fast engagement are key when Bestowal is active.
Bestowal Ninjutsu
While not universally praised as the strongest Ninjutsu in Sekiro, Bestowal has a rightful place among the game’s most visually impactful and satisfying abilities. It brings a visceral edge to your combat style, encouraging you to embrace bold, sweeping engagements that look as deadly as they feel. Reddit users often describe it as a fan-favorite for casual playthroughs, with enough power and spectacle to leave a lasting impression.
For players who enjoy clearing out enemy groups with flair, or those who appreciate style as much as substance, Bestowal Ninjutsu is a thrilling tool. It may not be the most strategic choice in every situation, but when used effectively, it can feel like wielding pure fury with every swing. Master its use, and you’ll not only survive Ashina you’ll dominate it in style.